What Are the Most Common Types of Elder Abuse?

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Common Types of Elder Abuse in Winnipeg, MB

Elder abuse is more common than people know, and it could be caused by a child, grandchild, spouse, or other family members. Below are some of the most common types of elder abuse family caregivers should look out for, along with ways to prevent the abuse.

Humiliation

What may seem like positive criticism could feel like hurtful and disrespectful comments to an older adult. Watch the way you speak to your senior loved one, and avoid using a condescending tone. Speak with the same level of respect you would want if the situation was reversed. While you’re out in public with your loved one, don’t make him or her feel less independent. If your loved one has difficulty walking, offer assistance instead of grabbing his or her hand without approval. You should also look for solutions to limited mobility, such as walking devices and accessories.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Winnipeg families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Identity Theft

Prevent untrustworthy people from coming into your loved one’s home, regardless if it’s family members, close friends, or caregivers. These people may have access to your loved one’s personal and financial information, and you don’t want them to steal his or her identity. It’s also a good idea to check your loved one’s bank statements, insurance bills, utility bills, and credit report to prevent other people from stealing his or her identity. Some scams targeted at seniors include: 
• Charity opportunities 
• Investment fraud 
• Prize announcements and claims

Neglect

Even if your parent lives independently, he or she may crave companionship. You need to check in with your loved one as often as possible, regardless if it’s via telephone or in person. Neglect is a common type of elder abuse because so many family caregivers fail to fulfill their role. It’s often unintentional, but neglect is still considered elder abuse. The biggest factor is denial. Family caregivers want to believe their loved one’s cognitive abilities haven’t changed, even if they have. You may need to monitor your parent’s health to determine what type of care he or she needs.
Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Winnipeg, MB, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.

Physical Abuse

Regardless of how much assistance your loved one needs, you should never get angry or violent with him or her. Remember your parent isn’t to blame for the aging process, and losing some physical and cognitive abilities could have a negative impact on his or her quality of life. At no point should you hit or intimidate your parent. Avoid mentally and emotionally abusing your loved one as well, because this could cause emotional or psychological pain and distress.
Hiring a professionally trained caregiver is a good way to make sure your parent receives help with daily tasks without being subjected to elder abuse. In Winnipeg, home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at (204) 489-6000 and create a customized in-home care plan for your aging parent today.

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